Decline in glue and gas-related deaths

There were 64 deaths associated with misusing
gas fuels, glues, aerosols and other solvent-based products in
2000, according to the latest Department of Health figures. This
compares with 75 deaths from volatile substances in 1999.

Half
of the 64 deaths were because of gas fuels, mainly butane lighter
refills. The number of deaths among under 18 year olds associated
with lighter fuel abuse dropped by 55 per cent, compared with the
average for the previous seven years.

Deaths
from volatile substances were more common among males than females,
although both genders are known to misuse substances
equally.

Meanwhile, youth homelessness
charity Centrepoint has warned there is not enough hostel provision
for homeless young drug users. Chief executive Anthony Lawson said
very few hostels accepted drug users because they did not have the
resources to support them. High quality hostels for young
homelessness people, including those with complex needs, should be
provided.

–Trends in Death Associated with Abuse of Volatile Substances
1971-2000 from www.vsareport.org

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